Hey all. I've been a tea enthusiast for a few years, but recently decided to delve a little deeper and refine my tastes / knowledge.

I've just started a tea / food blog so I'm hoping to gain some knowledge, friends, and participate in some events through this community.

I actually host tea-tasting parties at my apartment in Boston. I've done about 5 so far since Nov 2012, (about one every 2 months) and they've been huge successes. My group of friends are all mid to late 20 somethings who enjoy knitting and drinking tea, so we're fighting the stereotype that it's not hip or reserved for old dapper Englishmen.

How long have you been drinking tea?• Casually, since high school, but as far as expanding into higher qualities and varieties beyond bagged lipton, 3 years ish.

What was your first Tea?• Couldn't possibly recall, but Harney & Son's Hot Cinnamon Sunset was the tea that inspired me to make it more of a hobby.

Izzie wrote:Artistic license and freedom of expression are not excuses for irresponsibility or meaningless controversy.

Brilliant! May I use this quote from time to time?

I am an ardent believer in "I may not agree with what you say, but I defend your right say it to the death." (paraphrased) However when a member posts irresponsibly or even lying (for instance about a vendor), I can be equally "defensive" for the victim.